Differential Diagnosis for Hand/Finger Swelling without Known Injury
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Insect bite or sting: This is a common cause of hand or finger swelling, especially if the patient has been outdoors or in an area with insects.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Cellulitis: A bacterial skin infection that can cause swelling, redness, and warmth in the affected area.
- Contact dermatitis: An allergic reaction to a substance that has come into contact with the skin, causing swelling, redness, and itching.
- Gout: A type of arthritis that can cause sudden, severe swelling and pain in the hands or fingers.
- Osteoarthritis: A degenerative joint disease that can cause swelling and pain in the hands or fingers.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Compartment syndrome: A serious condition that occurs when pressure within the muscles builds to dangerous levels, cutting off blood flow and potentially leading to permanent damage.
- Necrotizing fasciitis: A life-threatening bacterial infection that can cause severe swelling, pain, and tissue damage.
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT): A blood clot that forms in the deep veins of the arm or hand, which can be life-threatening if it breaks loose and travels to the lungs.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Sarcoidosis: A rare autoimmune disease that can cause swelling and inflammation in various parts of the body, including the hands and fingers.
- Erythromelalgia: A rare disorder that causes burning pain, swelling, and redness in the hands and feet.
- Acromegaly: A rare hormonal disorder that can cause swelling and enlargement of the hands and feet.
- Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS): A rare chronic pain condition that can cause swelling, pain, and sensitivity in the affected area.